P.S. He said that it was because the conditions weren't good to go out. However, we went down to the water to check it out for ourselves and other tour groups were launching for the night.
Amazing to see mantas, good guides, bad management. We had to wait for almost an hour after the meet time because the manager was late with the kayaks and unreachable for awhile. When the manager did show up he was barely apologetic and quite rude to the guides in my opinion. In addition, when we got down to the boat dock, they had to set up lights and stuff for the kayaks, which probably should have been ready to go/we could have been instructed to help. There was A LOT of wait time and though both the guides we're very apologetic and appreciative, the management seems unorganized and unapologetic about that. That being said, the kayaking to the mantas was unique and once we got to see them it was amazing. For now, this is the only company that kayaks out to them. Aloha Kayak should hope no one else starts kayaking to the mantas; if I had another choice, I would go with a different company next time.
I wish I could read reviews on google before I booked the tour. Just as many reviews warned, my tour was cancelled without any reason. They indeed sent an email three hours in advance, asking whether I would like to reschedule. However, I was in a poor signal area and didn't receive the email. I didn't reschedule because 1) I don't have enough time on the Big Island; 2) I simply don't want to tour with the company, who might just cancel my rescheduled one on the next day. Anyway, they lost their reputation.
A poor impression was made, and we will not be recommending this company to anyone, nor will we attempt to book with them again.
We booked a night snorkel with the Manta Rays; Did not show up for our booking. The excuse he gave for not reaching out to notify us our booking was cancelled was that he couldn't call. However he could have emailed since we received instructions just fine, or shown up in person at the meeting point to tell us. Instead, he left us hanging waiting for him to show up. He said he was hoping to get there before us to say something, but it was clear that was just a line to attempt to pacify us. He clearly was not on his way to the meeting point to talk to us.
We had a great experience with the guys from Aloha. We appreciated the historical talk in advance of the trip. We felt the guides were conscious of safety and regulations while also being laid back. The pineapple after snorkeling was a nice touch to cleanse the salt taste from our mouths. We were there on Nov. 6 with Jemal and two others (sorry, we don't remember the names).
Lunch included good deli sandwiches with fresh fruit and water. Not cheap but worth it for the experience
Feb 2017. Great kayaking across the Bay and snorkelling at Captain Cook Memorial. Guides Jamal and Ramsey very friendly and informative. Owner was good to deal with.
Aloha Kayak Co is a US Travel Agency based in Kealakekua, Hawaii. Aloha Kayak Co is located at 79-7248 Mamalahoa Hwy, Kealakekua, HI 96750, USA.
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